Co-molded 3D elements

ABSTRACT

Describes are support elements for a sole of a shoe, in particular a sports shoe, a sole and a shoe with such a support element, as well as a method for the manufacture of a support element. As examples, the support element includes a first partial member formed of a first material, and a second partial member formed of a second material. The first partial member is mechanically joined to the second partial member in a connection region, wherein the connection region is configured to allow the first partial member to rotate or slide relative to the second partial member. The first partial member, the second partial member, and the connection region can be co-molded and joined together in a single fabricating step.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is related to and claims priority benefits from GermanPatent Application No. DE 10 2014 216 115.0, filed on Aug. 13, 2014,entitled CO-MOLDED 3D COMPONENTS (“the '115 application”). The '115application is hereby incorporated herein in its entirety by thisreference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a support element for the sole of ashoe, in particular a sports shoe, a sole as well as a shoe with such asupport element and a method for the manufacture of a support element.

BACKGROUND

The design of a shoe sole renders it possible to provide a shoe with aplethora of different properties, which may be pronounced to differentdegrees depending on the kind of shoe. Primarily, shoe soles serveprotective functions. They protect the foot from injury by theirincreased hardness compared to the shoe shaft, for example caused bypointed objects on which the wearer may tread. Furthermore, the shoesole usually protects the shoe from excessive wear by an increasedabrasion resistance. Shoe soles may also increase the grip of a shoe onthe respective ground. Further functions of a shoe sole may be toprovide a certain stability to the course of movements. In addition, ashoe sole may provide a damping action to cushion the forces occurringduring contact of the shoe with the ground. Finally, a shoe sole mayalso protect the foot from dirt or spray water or provide a plurality offurther functionalities.

To meet this plurality of requirements, which arise from the abovementioned exemplary functions, many different materials for themanufacture of shoe soles are known from the prior art. As examples forthese different materials, ethylene-vinyl-acetate (EVA), thermoplasticpolyurethane (TPU), rubber, polypropylene (PP) or polystyrene (PS) shallbe mentioned here. Furthermore, the use of expanded materials, inparticular expanded thermoplastic polyurethane (eTPU) or expandedpolyether-block-amide (ePEBA), were considered for the manufacture of ashoe sole. Expanded TPU and expanded PEBA distinguish themselves by alow weight and good elasticity- and damping properties.

For example, the WO 2005/066250 A1 describes a sole made from expandedthermoplastic polyurethane, which may be connected with a shoe shaftwithout an additional bonding agent. The DE 10 2012 206 094 A1 and EP 2649 896 A2 disclose shoes with soles with particles made from eTPU andmethods for their manufacture.

To selectively influence the properties of the sole, the use ofadditional functional elements, as for example a reinforcing element ora support element, is known from the prior art. Such a reinforcing- orsupport element can increase the stability of the sole in chosenregions, like, for example, the medial region of the midfoot, and canserve to relief the musculoskeletal system, for example during runningon uneven terrain or when over-pronating.

A disadvantage of the reinforcing- and support elements known from theprior art is, however, that they are typically integrally molded orformed from a single base material. Hence, the flexibility- anddeformation properties of the reinforcing element are already determinedthroughout the entire reinforcing element to large degrees by theselection of the base material. Also, the number of possible functionsthat can be assumed by such a reinforcing element is limited.

It is therefore a problem underlying the present invention to providesupport elements for soles of shoes and methods for their manufacturethat further increase the possibilities to influence the properties of asole. Herein, the manufacture shall involve as small a number ofindividual manufacturing steps as possible and as little manufacturingexpenses as possible.

SUMMARY

The terms “invention,” “the invention,” “this invention” and “thepresent invention” used in this patent are intended to refer broadly toall of the subject matter of this patent and the patent claims below.Statements containing these terms should be understood not to limit thesubject matter described herein or to limit the meaning or scope of thepatent claims below. Embodiments of the invention covered by this patentare defined by the claims below, not this summary. This summary is ahigh-level overview of various embodiments of the invention andintroduces some of the concepts that are further described in theDetailed Description section below. This summary is not intended toidentify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor isit intended to be used in isolation to determine the scope of theclaimed subject matter. The subject matter should be understood byreference to appropriate portions of the entire specification of thispatent, any or all drawings and each claim.

According to certain embodiments of the present invention, a solecomprises a support element at least partially enclosed by the sole,wherein the support element comprises a first partial member formed of afirst material, and a second partial member formed of a second material,wherein the first partial member is mechanically joined to the secondpartial member in a connection region, wherein the connection region isconfigured to allow the first partial member to rotate or slide relativeto the second partial member.

In certain embodiments, the first material and the second material arenot the same material.

In some embodiments, the first partial member, the second partialmember, and the connection region are co-molded and joined together in asingle fabricating step.

According to some embodiments, the first material and the secondmaterial may be chemically incompatible. In further embodiments, thefirst material has a melting temperature that is higher than a meltingtemperature of the second material.

In some embodiments, the first material and the second material areplastic materials, wherein the two plastic materials are chosen suchthat the connection region does not comprise a chemical bond between thetwo plastic materials. The two plastic materials may not form thechemical bond due to an additive contained in at least one of the twoplastic materials.

In these embodiments, the first material may comprise polyamide and/orpolytetrafluoroethylene, and the polyamide may be polyamide-6.6. Thesecond material may comprise polyamide, polyoxymethylene, andpolytetrafluoroethylene, and the polyamide may be polyamide-12.

In certain embodiments, the connection region comprises at least onelocking direction, wherein a movement of the first partial memberrelative to the second partial member in the at least one lockingdirection is more strongly restricted than in another direction. Infurther embodiments, the connection region comprises at least onelocking axis, wherein a rotation of the first partial member relative tothe second partial member about the at least one locking axis is morestrongly restricted than a rotation around another axis.

In additional embodiments, the connection region is a ball joint and/ora piston arranged inside a cylinder. The connection region may beconfigured so that a movement of the first partial member relative tothe second partial member creates a pumping action.

In some embodiments, the support element may be positioned within thesole such that the movement of the first partial member relative to thesecond partial member is created by a wearer treading on the sole.

At least one of the first partial member and the second partial membermay be a planar member and/or may comprise a rod-shaped section, whereinthe rod-shaped section is inserted into a cylinder in the connectionregion.

According to some embodiments, the first partial member is mechanicallyjoined to a plurality of second partial members in a plurality ofconnection regions, wherein each of the plurality of connection regionsis configured to allow each of the plurality of second partial membersto rotate or slide relative to the first partial member. In furtherembodiments, the second partial member is mechanically joined to aplurality of first partial members in a plurality of connection regions,wherein each of the plurality of connection regions is configured toallow each of the plurality of first partial members to rotate or sliderelative to the second partial member. In additional embodiments, aplurality of first partial members are mechanically joined to aplurality of second partial members in a plurality of connectionregions, wherein the plurality of connection regions are configured toallow each of the plurality of first partial members to rotate or sliderelative to each of the plurality of second partial members in analternating pattern.

The sole may further comprise a cushioning element that at leastpartially encloses the support element. The cushioning element maycomprise randomly arranged particles of an expanded material. In theseembodiments, the particles of the expanded material are selected from agroup consisting of expanded thermoplastic polyurethane particles andexpanded polyether-block-amide particles.

According to some embodiments, a shoe may comprise a sole as describedabove.

According to certain embodiments of the present invention, a method ofmanufacturing a support element, wherein the support element comprises afirst partial member, a second partial member, and a connection region,the method comprising injection molding at least one of the firstpartial member and the second partial member, and mechanically joiningthe first partial member and the second partial member in the connectionregion, wherein the connection region is configured to allow the firstpartial member to rotate or slide relative to the second partial member.

In some embodiments of the method, the first partial member and thesecond partial member are formed of plastic materials, wherein the twoplastic materials are chosen such that the connection region does notcomprise a chemical bond between the two plastic materials. The twoplastic materials may not form the chemical bond due to an additivecontained in at least one of two plastic materials.

The first partial member and the second partial member may be formed ofchemically incompatible materials. In further embodiments, the firstpartial member is formed of a first material, and the second partialmember is formed of a second material, wherein the first material has amelting temperature that is higher than a melting temperature of thesecond material.

In some embodiments, the injection molding step comprises injectionmolding the second partial member into a mold in which the first partialmember is arranged. The method may further comprise injection moldingthe first partial member.

In additional embodiments, the injection molding step comprisesinjection molding the first partial member into a mold in which thesecond partial member is arranged. The method may further compriseinjection molding the second partial member.

In further embodiments, the injection molding step and the mechanicaljoining step are simultaneously performed in a single manufacturingstep.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the following detailed description, embodiments of the invention aredescribed referring to the following figures:

FIGS. 1a-b are views of a support element, according to certainembodiments of the present invention.

FIGS. 2a-g are views of a sole with the support element of FIGS. 1a -1b.

FIG. 3 is a view of a support element, according to certain embodimentsof the present invention.

FIGS. 4a-c are views of a hinge-like support element, according tocertain embodiments of the present invention.

FIGS. 5a-b are views of a sole with the support element of FIGS. 4a -4c.

FIGS. 6a-c are views of a support element, according to certainembodiments of the present invention.

FIGS. 7a-g are views of a piston/cylinder support element, according tocertain embodiments of the present invention.

FIGS. 8a-b are views of a sole with the support element of FIGS. 7a -7g.

FIGS. 9a-c are views of a ball joint support element, according tocertain embodiments of the present invention.

FIGS. 10a-b are views of further embodiments of a ball joint supportelement, according to certain embodiments of the present invention.

FIGS. 11a-b are views of a support element with planar partial membersand a sole with such a support element, according to certain embodimentsof the present invention.

FIGS. 12a-b are views of a support element with multiple first and/orsecond partial members, according to certain embodiments of the presentinvention.

FIGS. 13a-c are views of a manufacturing method for forming supportelements, according to certain embodiments of the present invention.

FIGS. 14a-b are views of a manufacturing method for forming supportelements, according to certain embodiments of the present invention.

FIGS. 15a-k are sketches of support elements, according to certainembodiments of the present invention.

FIGS. 16a-q are sketches of support elements, according to certainembodiments of the present invention.

FIGS. 17a-e are sketches of support elements, according to certainembodiments of the present invention.

FIGS. 18a-h are sketches of support elements, according to certainembodiments of the present invention.

FIGS. 19a-d are sketches of support elements, according to certainembodiments of the present invention.

FIGS. 20a-b are sketches of support elements for use with a lacingsystem of a shoe, according to certain embodiments of the presentinvention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION

According to an aspect of the present invention, this problem is atleast partially solved by a support element for a shoe sole or for acushioning element, which comprises a first partial member and a secondpartial member, wherein the second partial member is rotatably and/orslidably connected with the first partial member in a connection regionby an injection molding process.

The support element may, for example, allow locally influencing theelasticity-, flexibility- and deformation properties of the sole asdesired. Due to the rotatable and/or slidable connection of the firstpartial member with the second partial member, the possibilities ofinfluencing the properties of the sole by use of the support element maybe significantly increased in comparison with an integrally moldedsupport element. It is, for example, possible to influence theflexibility of the sole independently of the torsion stiffness of thesole in different regions of the sole. The rotatable and/or slidableconnection may, in particular, be arranged in regions of the sole inwhich an increased movability of the sole shall be maintained. Arotatable and/or slidable connection may, for example, be arranged inthe forefoot region, in which the sole shall comprise a sufficientdegree of flexibility along its longitudinal direction in order to notimpair roll-off of the foot over the toes. In the midfoot region or inthe toe region, it may be beneficial if the sole is provided relativelystiff, to prevent injuries of the wearer. An inventive support elementmay thus allow providing relatively stiff and stable regions of the solewhich may be separated from one another by a flexible part of the sole.With an integrally formed support element without a rotatable and/orslidable connection of two partial members, this may be hard to achieve,if at all possible.

In the following, further design possibilities and optional features ofinventive support elements are described, which may be combined by theskilled person as desired to achieve the respective desired effect withregards to influencing the properties of the sole.

The first partial member may comprise a first plastic material and thesecond partial member may comprise a second plastic material, whereinthe two plastic materials are chosen such that the connection regiondoes not comprise a chemical bond of the two materials.

By such a choice of the first and second plastic material, the supportelement may be manufactured in a simple injection molding process insuch a manner that the first and the second partial members comprise therotatable and/or slidable connection, without subsequent method stepsbeing necessary for this like, for example, a subsequent bonding,clipping together, e.g. in a snap-fit manner, or different kind ofassembling of the first and second partial members. This may increasedurability of the rotatable and/or slidable connection significantly andsimplify the manufacture. This may also mean that the typical tolerancesthat might be needed with snap-fit pieces may not have to be observed.This can lead to more consistent pieces and “perfect fit and function”.

Herein, the first plastic material and the second plastic material maybe chemically incompatible. This will be referred to in the following as“Option I”.

Due to the use of such incompatible plastic materials, no additionalmeasures must be taken during the manufacture to avoid gluing, meltingtogether or the creation of another kind of chemical bond between thetwo plastic materials. It is, for example, possible that the firstplastic material comprises or consists of a polyamide and the secondplastic material comprises or consists of polyoxymethylene (POM) (orvice versa). The POM may be overinjected over the polyamide, wherein dueto the chemical incompatibility of the two materials, no chemical bondforms in the connection region.

It is also possible that the first plastic material has a first meltingtemperature that is significantly higher than a second meltingtemperature of the second plastic material (or vice versa). This will bereferred to in the following as “Option II”.

It is then possible that the first plastic material is overinjected withthe second plastic material at a temperature lower than the firstmelting temperature. In this way, no chemical bond is created in theconnection region as the first material does not melt duringoverinjection with the second material. It is, for example, possiblethat the first plastic material comprises or consists of a polyamide 6.6(PA6.6) with a melting temperature of around 260° C., which isoverinjected with the second plastic material that comprises or consistsof a polyamide 12 (PA12) with a melting temperature of around 180° C.(or vice versa), wherein the overinjection is performed at a temperaturebelow 260° C. but preferably higher than 180° C.

It is furthermore possible that the first and second plastic material donot form a chemical bond in the connection region due to an additivecontained in either or both of the first and/or second plastic material.This will be referred to in the following as “Option III”.

This may allow broadening the range of materials that may be used asfirst or second plastic material, respectively, while still guaranteeingthe creation of the rotatable and/or slidable connection of the firstand second partial members. The first plastic material could, e.g.comprise a polyamide that is modified with lubricant, for example apolyamide modified with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), and the secondplastic material could comprise or consist of an unmodified polyamide(or vice versa). The second plastic material could then e.g. beoverinjected over the first plastic material, wherein due to the addedlubricant in the first plastic material, no chemical bond forms in theconnection region.

It is mentioned here, that Options I, II and III can also be combinedwith one another in certain embodiments of an inventive support element.

The first plastic material may, for example, comprise one or more offollowing materials: polyamide (PA), in particular polyamide-6.6(PA6.6), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE).

The second plastic material may, for example, comprise one or more ofthe following materials: polyamide (PA), in particular polyamide-12(PA12), polyoxymethylene (POM), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE).

These materials are well suited for the manufacture of a supportelement, because they are easily processed and cheap and can meet thetypical requirements of such support elements with respect to theirflexibility- and elasticity properties. Herein, the selection of thefirst plastic material and the second plastic material may be carriedout in such a way that during the injection molding no chemical bond isformed between the first and second plastic material in the connectionregion, as mentioned above.

Moreover, when used in cushioning elements or soles for shoes (cf.below), in particular in midsoles or parts of midsoles, such supportelements can have a complex structure without being locked into thecushioning element or sole. The material of the support element incontact with the material of the cushioning element or sole can beincompatible to the material of the cushioning element or sole, so thatthe support element is surrounded or partially surrounded by thecushioning element or sole, but does not stick or bond to it. Inparticular, no chemical bond is created. This may be beneficial, forexample to allow the support element to move with the material of thecushioning element or sole. The interaction of the support element andthe cushioning element or sole may thus be optimized. The supportelement can react to stretch, twist and compression movements of thecushioning element or sole. Therefore, the support element can controland optimize the movement of the cushioning element or sole.

In some embodiments, the cushioning element can be changed in itsposition within the sole. It can e.g. be moved sideways or flipped inits horizontal or vertical direction to change the properties of thesole comprising the cushioning element.

A support element might also be embedded within a cushioning element orsole and have an adjustment device facing to one surface of thecushioning element or sole. Hence, the element may be adjustedindividually by a wearer.

In this regard, in particular cushioning elements and soles made ofparticle foams (cf. below) provide another benefit for such embeddedsupport elements. The support elements can be placed in a mold forcreating the cushioning element or sole, which at least partiallysurrounds the support element (cf. also below). The particles used inthis process may be inserted as solid expanded particles into the mold.Only the surface of the particles may then be melted for creating theparticle foam and hence the cushioning element or sole. Therefore, therewill be no liquid material present within the mold during themanufacture which could flow into the support element and lock it itsposition or prevent or limit the movement in certain positions byblocking the movable connections or the like. It is therefore possibleto embed support elements with very complex structures.

It is furthermore envisioned that the support element comprises at leastone locking direction, in which locking direction a translation of thefirst partial member relative to the second partial member is morestrongly restricted than in another direction. This other direction willbe designated as free direction in the following.

In this way, it is, for example, possible to influence the properties ofthe sole to the effect that material compressions, material elongationsor shearing movements in the locking direction are decreased incomparison to the free direction and that the sole therefore appearsstiffer or more stable, respectively, in the locking direction than inthe free direction. Herein, this free direction may, for example, beperpendicular to the locking direction or it may be aslant to it. It is,in particular, envisioned that the shearing ability or compressibilityunder translations in the locking direction initially comprises a first,smaller value and only for translations above a certain threshold valuecomprises a second, larger value. In this manner, excessive shearing ofthe sole may be avoided or limited, for example to avoid injuries causedby an excessive destabilization of the foot.

It is also possible that the support element comprises at least onelocking axis, around which locking axis a rotation of the first partialmember is more strongly restricted than a rotation around another axis.This other axis will be designated as free axis in the following.

This may have the effect that the torsion stiffness of the sole aroundthe locking axis is larger than the torsion stiffness around the freeaxis. Also here, it is possible that for twisting around the lockingaxis, the torsion stiffness initially comprises a first, smaller valueand only for a twist above a certain threshold angle comprises a second,larger value. In this manner, excessive twisting of the sole around thelocking axis may be avoided or limited, which may otherwise lead toinjuries.

In this case, too, the free axis may, for example, be perpendicular tothe locking axis or it may be aslant to it. In particular, the lockingaxis may be oriented in a direction from the heel of the sole to the tipof the foot, such that the torsion stiffness of the sole with respect tothis longitudinal axis is higher than a torsion stiffness of the solewith respect to a free transversal axis from the medial to the lateralside of the sole. Or the reverse situation may be the case, i. e. thelocking axis runs in medial-lateral direction.

The free (transversal) axis may, in particular, run beneath the toejoints from the medial side of the sole to the lateral side of the sole,whereas the locking axis runs from the heel to the tip of the foot. Thismay allow providing a sole which is sufficiently flexible in the regionof the toe joints to enable a natural roll-off of the foot and at thesame time comprises a sufficiently high torsion stiffness around itslongitudinal axis to prevent a twisting of ones ankle or a breaking outof the foot of a wearer.

In this regard, a support element that is provided hinge-like may, forexample, also be envisioned, whose free hinge axis runs beneath the toejoints from the medial to the lateral side. Around this hinge axis,rotational motions of the hinge are easily possible, that is the solefacilitates roll-off of the foot. Rotations of the first and second wingof the hinge around another axis, for example around a locking axisarranged perpendicular to the hinge axis (for example, around thelongitudinal axis of the sole) are essentially not possible.

The connection region may, for example, be provided as a ball joint.

A ball joint allows providing a connection region which allows a largedegree of mobility and, in particular, rotational movements between thefirst and second partial members. Hence, such a ball joint may beemployed in regions in which the sole shall be “movable”. In combinationwith the locking axis it is, however, also possible with a connectionregion provided as a ball joint to control or influence the torsionstiffness of the sole around different axes independently from oneanother, for example.

The connection region may also comprise a piston and cylinder, in whichcylinder the piston is arranged.

Connection regions provided in this manner may, for example, have theeffect that the bending capabilities of a sole with such a supportelement can be reduced along the piston- and cylinder axis, i. e. thesole becomes stiffer along this axis, whereas the torsion stiffnessaround this axis is essentially left unaffected. Such a cylinderconstruction may also allow leaving shearing- or compression movementsof the sole material along the cylinder axis initially unaffected, untila situation arises in which the piston hits an edge of the cylinder.

It is furthermore envisioned that the connection region is provided suchthat a movement of the first partial member relative to the secondpartial member creates a pumping action. Herein, the support element maybe provided such that the movement of the first partial member relativeto the second partial member is created by walking with the shoe sole.

Such a pumping action, in particular if this action is created bywalking with the shoe sole, may be employed to transport air into theinner part of the shoe or out of it and therefore increase theventilation of the inner part of the shoe and therefore of the foot.This may increase wearing comfort, in particular during longer wear ofthe shoe. It is, however, also possible that by means of the pumpingaction, a liquid is moved between different regions of the inner partsof the sole. The action may, for example, serve to transport a liquidfrom a first liquid bladder in a first region of the sole into a secondliquid bladder in another region of the sole.

Instead of being provided to actively conduct such a pumping action, thesupport element may, in principle, also be provided in such a manner,that it acts as a valve to regulate such a liquid- or airstream.

It is also possible that the first partial member and/or the secondpartial member are provided as planar members.

A support element provided in a hinge-like manner and the possibilitiesfor using such a support element have already been indicated. Ingeneral, partial members provided as planar members may allowinfluencing the properties of the sole and, in particular, itsbendability/flexibility in (large) planar regions, to obtain a solewhose properties may be relatively constant across these planar regions.It can, for example, be desirable that the flexibility- and elasticityproperties of the sole are uniformly influenced in the region of thetoes, in the midfoot region, or in the heel region, to achieve apleasant wearing sensation. Partial members provided in such planarmanner may also act as a push-through protection, for example beneaththe forefoot or the heel, to prevent injuries caused by pointed objects,etc., during treading down or push-off of the foot and to facilitate asecure wearing sensation.

Herein, the first planar member and the second planar member may beprovided slidably with respect to each other.

It is, in particular, possible that the first planar member and thesecond planar member are facing each other with their planar surfaces,with it also being possible that there is some interspace between thefirst and the second planar member that may be filled with a materiallike a gel or a liquid, and that the planar members may be slid relativeto each other along the planar surfaces. Such a construction may, forexample, be used in the heel region, to alleviate shearing forces actingon the musculoskeletal system of the wearer when treading down, as forexample described in the documents DE 102 44 433 B4 and DE 102 44 435B4.

The first partial member and/or the second partial member may alsocomprise a rod-shaped section, which runs into the connection region.

Such rod-shaped sections may have an advantage that they take up arelatively small volume of the sole and therefore do not markedlyinfluence the damping properties and damping capabilities of the sole.This may also mean saving weight compared to partial members provided ina different manner. At the same time, the rod-shaped sections may serveto increase the bending stiffness of the sole along an axis of therod-shaped section, for example.

It is furthermore possible that the first partial member is connectedrotatably and/or slidably with a plurality of second partial members ina plurality of connection regions by an injection molding process.

Here, the first partial member may act as a central partial member thatis, for example, arranged in the middle of the sole, to provide themidfoot region and, in particular, the region of the arch of the footwith the desired stability. The second partial members connectedrotatably and/or slidably with the first partial member may, forexample, extend from this central first partial member in the directionof the edges of the sole, the tip of the foot, or the heel, in order toinfluence the stability- and elasticity properties of the sole in theseregions as desired.

It is, in particular, possible that the first partial member and theplurality of second partial members form a skeleton-like structurewithin the sole, which allows influencing the properties of the sole inall or at least predominant parts of the sole. If the first and theplurality of second partial members are in addition (at least partially)provided rod-shaped, this may happen without significantly compromisingthe weight or the damping properties of the sole.

The opposite situation, in which the second partial member is connectedrotatably and/or slidably with a plurality of first partial members in aplurality of connection regions by an injection molding process, is alsoenvisioned.

It is, in particular, envisioned that a plurality of first partialmembers and a plurality of second partial members are alternatinglyconnected to each other rotatably and/or slidably in a plurality ofconnection regions.

It is hence possible to provide support elements that comprise achain-like, skeleton-like or mesh-like structure and hence to influencethe properties of the sole in numerous ways, selectively in specificparts of the sole or throughout the entire sole area.

Another aspect of the present invention relates to a cushioning element,in particular a midsole or part of a midsole, with an inventive supportelement. Herein, the cushioning element may comprise randomly arrangedparticles of an expanded material, for example of expanded thermoplasticpolyurethane (eTPU) and/or expanded polyether-block-amide (ePEBA). Therandomly arranged particles may be fused at their surfaces, for exampleby subjecting the particles to a heat, steam and/or pressure treatmentwithin a mold, or the like.

Further aspects of the present invention relate to a sole with aninventive support element as well as a shoe, in particular a runningshoe, with such a sole or cushioning element.

An inventive sole may, for example, comprise or be formed by acushioning element, in particular a midsole, with a support element asdiscussed above. The support element could, however, also be part of asole that does not comprise such a cushioning element.

For the sake of conciseness, reference is always made to a shoe sole inthe following. However, if applicable, the case of an individualcushioning element is always also implied.

For such a sole or shoe, it is possible within the scope of theinvention to combine the discussed design possibilities and optionalfeatures of an inventive support element in any order, and it is alsopossible to leave out certain aspects, if these should appeardispensable for the respective shoe or the respective sole.

Explicit reference is furthermore made to the fact that embodiments ofan inventive sole or an inventive shoe may comprise further elements, inparticular three-dimensionally formed elements, in addition to aninventive support element, like for example: stabilizing elements,support elements, in particular elements providing a banking support tothe foot during lateral side-cut movements, elements to improvebreathability, elements to improve the grip of the sole/shoe on theground, further cushioning or damping elements, elements for decorativepurposes, e.g. LEDs, elements facilitating a connection of a shoe upperwith the sole, elements controlling the stiffness, shearing motions anddeformation of the sole material, fluid or gas bladders or a systemthereof, elements providing a spring-like effect to the sole, or nayfurther sole elements known from the prior art.

In addition, a further aspect of the present invention relates to amethod for the manufacture of a support element for a shoe sole (or fora cushioning element, cf. the comment above) with a first and a secondpartial member, wherein the first and the second partial member arerotatably and/or slidably connected to each other in a connection regionby injection molding.

As already mentioned, it may be beneficial in this regard that therotatable and/or slidable connection in the connection region is createdduring the injection molding. It is therefore not necessary tomechanically join together the first and the second partial member inadditional processing steps, for example by means of snapping orclipping together or other ways of assembling. In this manner, arotatable and/or slidable connection may be achieved that isparticularly lasting and durable and shows little material fatigue andalso the usual tolerances that must be observed for snap-fit pieces canbe decreased or completely omitted.

In particular, for the inventive method as described herein, thematerial for the manufacture of the first and second partial member,respectively, may be chosen and the method be adapted as described asOptions I, II and III above.

For example, in the method, the second partial member may bemanufactured and simultaneously connected rotatably and/or slidably withthe first partial member in the connection region by the injectionmolding in a mold, in which the first partial member is arranged.Herein, the first partial member may also be manufactured by injectionmolding, in certain embodiments within the same mold, and in otherembodiments in a different position of the mold. In case the materialsare chosen according to Option II, for example, the molding temperaturefor the manufacture of the first and second partial member,respectively, may be suitably adjusted.

The second partial member may, for example, be molded around or into thefirst partial member in the connection region, such that connectionregions may be manufactured that comprise undercuts and so forth. As thesecond partial member is manufactured simultaneously to the creation ofthe connection in the connection region, the durability and resistanceof the support element may be further improved. This may in particularapply, if the first partial member is also created by injection molding,e.g. at a higher temperature if the materials are chosen according toOption II.

The opposite case, in which the first partial member is manufactured andsimultaneously connected rotatably and/or slidably with the secondpartial member in the connection region by the injection molding in amold, in which the second partial member is arranged, is also possible.Herein, the second partial member may also be manufactured by injectionmolding, in some embodiments within the same mold but in otherembodiments in a different position of the mold.

It is furthermore possible that the first and the second partial memberare manufactured and simultaneously connected rotatably and/or slidablyto each other in the connection region in a single manufacturing step bythe injection molding. This may, in particular, be the case if thematerials are chosen according to Option I and/or Option III.

By use of incompatible plastic materials, e.g. according to Options I,II and/or III, the inventive method may therefore allow providing aparticularly durable and resistant support element with one or moremovable connection regions in a particularly easy manner and with verylittle manufacturing effort.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The subject matter of embodiments of the present invention is describedhere with specificity to meet statutory requirements, but thisdescription is not necessarily intended to limit the scope of theclaims. The claimed subject matter may be embodied in other ways, mayinclude different elements or steps, and may be used in conjunction withother existing or future technologies. This description should not beinterpreted as implying any particular order or arrangement among orbetween various steps or elements except when the order of individualsteps or arrangement of elements is explicitly described.

Certain embodiments of the invention are described in the followingdetailed description with reference to support elements for the soles ofrunning shoes. It is, however, emphasized that the present invention isnot limited to these embodiments. Rather, the present invention may alsobe employed in soles for other kinds of shoes, in particular soles forsports shoes, hiking shoes, leisure shoes, street shoes, working shoesand so forth.

It is also mentioned that in the following, only individual embodimentsof the invention can be described in more detail. The skilled personwill realize, however, that the features and design options described inrelation to these specific embodiments may also be modified or combinedin a different manner within the scope of the invention, and individualfeatures may also be omitted, if these seem dispensable.

FIGS. 1a-b show embodiments of an inventive support element 100. Thesupport element 100 comprises a first partial member 110 and two secondpartial members 120 and 125. The second partial member 120 is connectedrotatably around the rotation axis 170 with the first partial member 110in an injection molding process in the connection region 130. Also, theother second partial member 125 is connected rotatably around therotation axis 170 with the first partial member 110 in an injectionmolding process in a further connection region 135.

The two second partial members 120 and 125 each comprise a Y-shape,formed by two flattened arms, respectively.

FIG. 1a shows the support element 100 in a neutral position, in whichthe two second partial members 120, 125 are arranged in a plane. FIG. 1b, on the other side, shows a position of the support element 100, inwhich the two second partial members 120 and 125 are rotated withrespect to each other, which is made possible by their respectiverotatable connection to the first partial member 110. The differentorientations of the two second partial members 120 and 125 are shown inFIGS. 1a-b , in particular, with the help of two notches 180 and 185 inthe two second partial members 120 and 125, which are highlighted inFIGS. 1a-b to facilitate perception.

The first partial member 110 and both second partial members 120 and 125may be provided such that in the neutral position as shown in FIG. 1athe support element 100 snaps into place such that an increased force,e. g. compared to the position shown in FIG. 1b , is necessary to rotatethe second partial members 120 and 125 with respect to the first partialmember 110 and therefore also with respect to each other.

A translation of the second partial members 120 and 125 in relation tothe first partial member 110 is not possible for the present supportelement 100. The support element 100 can therefore serve, for example,to control the flexibility and bending properties of the sole, withoutadversely influencing the torsion capabilities around the axis 170.

In the present case, the first partial member 110 was manufactured frompolyamide 6.6 with a lubricant added in a first position of the moldused, whereas the second partial members 120 and 125 were manufacturedfrom polyamide 12 at a lower temperature and in a second position of themold. A rotational mold was used, but other kinds of molds are alsopossible.

In principle, it is also possible to use other materials, wherein thefirst partial member 110 may comprise a first plastic material and thesecond partial members 120 and 125 may comprise a second plasticmaterial. Herein, it may be beneficial to choose the two plasticmaterials in such a manner, that the two materials do not form achemical bond during the injection molding in the connection regions 130and 135. The first plastic material may, for example, be chosen from thefollowing materials: polyamide (PA), in particular polyamide-6.6(PA6.6), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE).

The second plastic material may, for example, be chosen from thefollowing materials: polyamide (PA), in particular polyamide-12 (PA12),polyoxymethylene (POM), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE).

In general, any combination of Options I, II and III as discussed abovemay be used for the manufacture of the support element 100.

FIGS. 2a-g show embodiments of an inventive sole 200. FIG. 2a shows thetop side of the sole 200, FIG. 2b shows the lateral sidewall of the sole200 and FIG. 2c the bottom side of the sole 200. FIG. 2d shows the sole200 under a bending load. FIGS. 2e and 2f show close-up views of thesole 200 from its top side, wherein FIG. 2f corresponds to the state ofthe sole 200 shown in FIG. 2g , wherein a torsion force is applied tothe sole 200.

The sole 200 comprises a cushioning element in form of a midsole 250.The midsole 250 comprises randomly arranged particles of an expandedmaterial, in the present case of expanded thermoplastic polyurethane(eTPU), that are fused at their surfaces. Alternatively, the midsole 250may also comprise randomly arranged particles from expandedpolyether-block-amide (ePEBA) that are fused at their surfaces. The sole200 furthermore comprises an outsold 260, which, in the present case, isprovided grid- or net-like.

The midsole 250 further comprises a support element 100. This is thesupport element 100 as it is shown in FIGS. 1a and 1b . Only thecoloring of the first partial member 110 of the support element 100 ischosen differently to what is shown in FIGS. 1a and 1b . The firstpartial member 110 as well as the two connection regions 130 and 135, inwhich the two second partial members 120 and 125 are rotatably connectedto the first partial member 110, are arranged in a window 255 of themidsole, such that this region of the support element 100 is visiblefrom the outside and the movability of the support element 100 is notcompromised in the region of the connection regions 130 and 135.

The support element is arranged within the midsole 250 such that theflattened arms of both Y-shaped second partial members 120 and 125extend approximately through the middle (with respect to a directionfrom the top side of the sole to the bottom side of the sole) of themidsole 250. Different arrangements are, however, also conceivable.

As can be gathered from FIG. 2a , the dimensions of the support element100, which are indicated in FIG. 2a by a dashed line 105, are chosensuch that the support element extends from the window 255 in the midsoleto a certain degree into the heel region as well as into the midfootregion. The present support element 100 does not extend, or at least notto a large degree, into the forefoot region.

This can have the effect that the sole 200 is comparatively stiff withregard to bendings in the regions into which the support element 100extends, whereas in the forefoot region, into which the support element100 does not extend, the sole 200 is more flexible, in order tofacilitate roll-off over the forefoot, as shown in FIG. 2 d.

In FIGS. 2e and 2f , close-up views of the window 255 of the midsole 250and the parts of the support element 100 arranged therein are shown. Asalready mentioned, in FIG. 2e the sole 200 was photographed in aneutral, force-free state, whereas the close-up view of FIG. 2f showsthe sole 200 in the state which is depicted in FIG. 2g and in which atorsion force is applied to the sole 200. By looking at the two notches180 and 185 in the two second partial members 120 and 125 of the supportelement 100, it is clearly envisioned that the two second partialmembers 120 and 125 follow the twisting of the sole 200 by a rotationrelative to each other. This rotation relative to one another is madepossible by the fact that each of the two second partial members 120 and125 is rotatably connected to the first partial member 110. Incombination with the representation of FIG. 2d , it becomes apparent forthe skilled person that the support element 100 may, for example, beused to increase the bending stiffness of the sole 200, for example, inthe midfoot region and in the heel region, wherein at the same time thetorsion capabilities of the sole 200 shall essentially be maintained. Bya suitable design of the connection regions 130 and 135, the torsioncapabilities of the sole 200 may, however, be further influenced. Forexample, the larger the friction during rotations of the second partialmembers 120 and 125 relative to the first partial member 110, the largerthe torsion stiffness of the sole 200 may be. Further possibilities ofexerting influence on the properties of the sole 200 are apparent to theskilled person.

FIG. 3 shows further embodiments of an inventive support element 300.The support element 300 comprises a first partial member 310. The firstpartial member 310 is provided bone-shaped or double-T-shaped andcomprises a circular cross-section. The first partial member 310 wasmanufactured in an injection molding process from polyamide 6.6 with alubricant added in a first position of the mold. Around the firstpartial member 310, a second cylindrically formed partial member 320 wasmanufactured in a further injection molding step at a lower temperatureand in a second position of the mold and simultaneously rotatably andslidably connected with the first partial member 310 in a connectionregion 330, which, in the present case, extends along the entire lengthof the second partial member 320. The second partial member 320 wasmanufactured from polyamide 12. However, other material combinations asdescribed herein and, in particular, any combination of Options I, IIand III discussed above might also be used.

The second partial member 320 is freely rotatable with respect to thefirst partial member 310 around the symmetry axis 370 of the supportelement 300. Moreover, the second partial member 320 is slidable alongthis symmetry axis 370 to a certain degree, more precisely until thesecond partial member 320 hits one of the two end regions 315 of thebone-shaped first partial member 310. A rotation or translation aroundor along another axis is essentially not possible for the presentsupport element 300. The symmetry axis 370 hence forms a “free” axis,along or around which translations and rotations—at least in a certainrange—are possible. On the other hand, all other axes or directions arelocking directions or locking axes, respectively, which do not allowtranslations or rotations.

FIGS. 4a to 4c show further embodiments of an inventive support element400. The support element 400 is provided hinge-like. FIGS. 4a and 4bshow the support element 400 in a neutral position, in which the twohinge wings are arranged in a plane, whereas FIG. 4c shows the supportelement 400 in an angled position.

The support element 400 comprises a first partial member 410 and asecond partial member 420, which are connected rotatably with each otherin a connection region 430 in an injection molding process, and eachpartial member 410, 420 comprises a wing of the hinge. The first partialmember 410 was manufactured from polyamide 6.6 with a lubricant addedand the second partial member 420 from polyamide 12. The two partialmembers 410 and 420 may be manufactured and connected in a singleinjection molding process or multiple injection molding processes may beused to this end. In the present case, the first partial member 410 wasfirst molded in a first position of the mold, and then the secondpartial member 420 was molded in a second position of the mold and at alower temperature. However, other material combinations as describedherein and, in particular, any combination of Options I, II and IIIdiscussed above might also be used.

FIGS. 5a and 5b show a potential application of such a hinge-likesupport element 400 in embodiments of an inventive sole 500. Only amidsole 550 is schematically shown in whose forefoot region such ahinge-like support element 400 is arranged. The hinge axis of thesupport element 400 may, in particular, be arranged in the region belowthe toe joints, running from the medial side to the lateral side.

FIG. 5a shows the sole 500 during initiation of the final phase of thestep cycle and FIG. 5b shows the sole 500 during push-off over the toeregion at the end of the step cycle. Because of the chosen arrangementof the support element 400, in particular the arrangement of the hingeaxis in the region below the toe joints, this push-off or rolling overthe forefoot- and toe region is not inhibited. At the same time, thewings of the hinge of the support element 400 can stabilize the forefootregion and thus prevent twisting ones ankle and function as apush-through protection, e. g. to protect the foot of the wearer frompointed objects, etc., during treading down or push-off.

FIGS. 15a-k show schematic sketches of possible embodiments of inventivesupport elements, which may, for example, be provided hinge-like. Thesesketches are primarily intended to provide the skilled person with anidea about the scope of application of the present invention and do notnecessarily represent the proportions and dimensions encountered in anactual embodiment. The same applies to the sketches in FIGS. 16a-q,17a-e, 18a-h, 19a-d and 20a -b.

A support element may e.g. be used to provide a collapsible shoestructure to minimize the required package space, cf. FIG. 15a . Forexample, the support element may have a hinge and snap for easy packing.

A support element may also be utilized, e.g. in a basketball shoe toequalizing dynamic movements and to avoid spraining or ankle twist, cf.FIGS. 15b and 15c . FIG. 15c illustrates banking without relativemovement.

Support elements may also be used to control shear movements of the solematerial, cf. FIG. 15 d.

FIG. 15e shows how a support element may be used to restrict or supportbending in a certain direction or define flex areas (here flexing in thearea of the joint).

FIG. 15f shows further embodiments of a hinge-like support elementarranged in the heel region of a sole. The hinge may help to shorten thelever arm and depending on its position to decrease the angular velocityin the frontal (pronation or supination velocity) or sagittal plane(sole angle velocity). The hinge can be constructed to limit the amountof rotation and it may help providing better heel lockdown, i.e. theheel may move with the bottom unit of the sole and hence the sole doesnot try to pull off the foot. For example, the locking mechanism may bedorsiflexion only.

FIG. 15g shows how a hinge-like support element comprising two platesconnected via a hinge, which is embedded within the midsole may providea banking support to a foot e.g. during lateral side-cut movements. Inthese embodiments, there may be no cushioning element located betweenthe two plates.

The support element could have a more flexible arm and a stiffer arm toguide the foot into a preferred position.

FIGS. 15h-j illustrate how a support element may be used to provideshock absorption and/or improved energy return to the wearer. Inparticular, the embodiments shown in FIG. 15i may provide extra energyreturn due to the additive mechanical construction. This constructionmay also work for a banking support as discussed above. The supportelement shown in FIG. 15j comprises a predefined angle to support thefoot in lateral sports in side movements.

Finally, FIG. 15k shows how a support element may be used to vary theheight of the heel portion of a sole or shoe, e.g. to provide anembedded claiming aid.

FIGS. 6a to 6c show further embodiments of an inventive support element600. The support element 600 is provided slider-like. It comprises afirst partial member 610, which is provided as a slider, and a secondpartial member 620, which is provided as a frame in which the firstpartial member 610 can be slid along. The first partial member 610 wasinjection molded from polyamide 6.6 with a lubricant added and thesecond partial member 620 was injection molded from polyamide 12 in twoinjection molding steps as already described above. Furthermore, thefirst partial member 610 was slidably connected in two connectionregions 630 and 635 with the second partial member 620 in the secondinjection molding step. However, other material combinations asdescribed herein and, in particular, any combination of Options I, IIand III discussed above might also be used.

In the present case, the connection regions 630 and 635 are providedsuch that the first partial member 610 comprises a respective groove ontwo opposite sides, in which corresponding protrusions or ridges of thesecond partial member 620 are arranged, such that the first partialmember 610 may be slid along these protrusions or ridges. In anotherdirection different from the direction along the protrusions or ridges,essentially (i. e. apart from tolerances due to the manufacturingprocess) no translations are possible. FIG. 6a shows the slider 610 in afirst position at the top edge of the support element 600 and FIG. 6bshows the slider 610 in a second position at the bottom edge of thesupport element 600. FIG. 6c shows a side view of the support element600.

The first partial member 610 further comprises a cylindrically formedprotruding element 640, which may, for example, facilitate anchoring ofthe first partial member 610 in the midsole.

FIGS. 16a-q show schematic sketches of possible embodiments of inventivesupport elements, in particular of possible slider-like embodiments.

A slider-like support element may, e.g. be used as a clima-switch, FIG.16a . By moving a slider left to right, openings are opened or closed,thus allowing ventilation when opened.

A slider-like support element may also be used to adjust the forefoot orheel in a certain angle to customize the shoe to the foot or thepreferred movement (specific sport or terrain), cf. FIG. 16b . Such asupport element could be movable during walking or be fixable indifferent positions.

The flexibility of the shoe may also be adjusted, e.g. by changing theflex groove length by a slider-like support element, cf. FIG. 16 c.

Multiple slider-like support elements could be moved toward or apartfrom each other in certain angles to define flex zone(s), cf. FIG. 16 d.

Also, a slider-like support element could be used for storing valuablethings like keys e.g. during running or could provide housing for anelectronic device, cf. FIG. 16 e.

Traction elements could be allowed or restricted from coming out thebottom surface during walking by a slider-like support element, cf. FIG.16 f.

The height of the heel of a shoe could be adjusted with the simpleadjustment of two elements, one of which may be wedge-shaped, whichcould be slid towards or apart from each other, cf. FIG. 16 g.

Also, a cleat for cycling could be embedded and be slidable in itsposition, preferable in the direction from the heel to forefoot but alsoin a direction from the medial side to the lateral side or alsoregarding its depth within the midsole, cf. FIG. 16 h.

An arch support could be placed as preferred or move with the footduring walking or running as shown in FIG. 16 i.

The stiffness of the midsole could be adjusted by sliding elements,similar to a bedframe or by sliding the elements to the side whichshould be the stiffest, cf. FIG. 16 j.

By a slider-like support element, the size of a shoe may be shiftedbetween a range of e.g. UK 40-43 or tolerances in the size may beallowed to allow relative movement between the forefoot and heel, cf.FIG. 16 k.

A slider-like support element may also serve to alleviate contact forcesin the heel region during impact of the foot with the ground, cf. FIG.16l (this concept is further discussed in relation to FIGS. 11a-bbelow).

FIG. 16m illustrates a further possibility how a slider-like supportelement may be used to control the stiffness of a sole.

FIG. 16n illustrates yet a further possibility how a slider-like supportelement may be used to control the stiffness of a sole by use of a pairof adjustable prongs that may be positioned parallel or vertical to thesurface of the sole.

FIG. 16o shows how having a sliding element within an embedded element,the stiffness, orientation or shape of the embedded element could beadjusted.

FIG. 16p illustrates the concept of having a rigid bar which could becovered by an softer part and be able to move relative to the bar, inorder to have more durable elements, e.g. elements that could bend moreand be thinner.

Finally, FIG. 16q shows how stretch of the sole material in medial tolateral direction could be restricted in defined areas by a bar movablewithin a housing in the longitudinal direction from the heel to thetoes.

FIGS. 7a-7g show embodiments of an inventive support element 700 whichcomprises a connection region 730. In this connection region 730, afirst partial member 710 was slidably connected to a second partialmember 720 in an injection molding process. In the present case, theconnection region 730 is provided by the first partial member 710comprising a cylinder and the second partial member 720 comprising apiston, which is arranged in the cylinder of the first partial member710. The opposite case is also possible, however. The first partialmember 710 and the second partial member 720 may further each comprise arod-shaped section which runs into the cylinder or the piston,respectively.

The first partial member 710 may, for example, be injection molded froma first plastic material, whereas the second partial member 720 may beinjection molded from a second plastic material, e.g. according toOptions I, II and/or III as discussed above.

The second partial member 720, and in particular its piston, may be slidalong the free direction 770 within the cylinder of the first partialmember 710 a certain distance, that is until the piston hits one of therespective ends of the cylinder of the first partial member 710, as e.g. illustrated in FIGS. 7a and 7b . The free direction 770 is, asdepicted in FIGS. 7a and 7b , the cylinder-/piston axis. Along a lockingdirection 780, which runs perpendicular to the free direction 770,essentially (i. e. apart from tolerances due to the manufacturingprocess) no translations of the piston with respect to the cylinder andtherefore of the second partial member 720 with respect to the firstpartial member 710 are possible (they are, in any case, more stronglyrestricted than in the free direction 770).

If the cylinder and the piston are further provided with a circularcross-section, rotations of the piston with respect to the cylinderaround the free axis 770 are also possible. In case the cylinder and thepiston are, for example, provided with a rectangular cross-section, suchrotations are not possible. In any case, rotations of the first partialmember 710 with respect to the second partial member 720 around thelocking axis 780, which is perpendicular to the free axis 770, areessentially not possible.

As shown in FIGS. 7c, 7d and 7e , such a translation of the piston ofthe second partial member 720 (indicated by the arrows 721 and 722) inthe cylinder of the first partial member 710 can, for example, be usedto create a pumping action. To this end, the cylinder of the firstpartial member 710 may, for example, comprise an inlet 750, throughwhich a liquid and/or a gas 760 may be sucked into the cylinder(indicated by the arrow 701) and be pushed out of the cylinder again(indicated by the arrow 702). It is clear to the skilled person that theillustrations in FIGS. 7c to 7e are merely schematic illustrations,which do not serve the purpose to represent the pumping mechanism in alldetails. This pumping mechanism will be suitably chosen by the skilledperson, for example taking into consideration the manufacturingexpenses.

FIGS. 7f and 7g show, for example, how such a pumping mechanism might beused to move back and forth a liquid and/or a gas 760 in a system ofbladders 751 and 756 connected to each other. For this, the bladders 751and 756 may be connected by means of feeding lines with correspondingin- and outlets 750 and 755 in the cylinder of the first partial member710, such that by a movement of the piston of the second partial member720 the liquid or the gas 760, respectively, may be pumped from onebladder to the other. Also here, reference is made to the fact that theillustrations of FIGS. 7f and 7g are merely schematic illustrations,which cannot show all details of such a system of connected bladders. Itis furthermore mentioned that a support element like the support element700 shown here may also act as a “passive” element, for example as somekind of valve, which directs and controls a liquid or gas stream in sucha system of connected bladders, instead of actively pumping the liquidand/or gas 760 through the system.

Herein, it may be beneficial, if, as shown in FIGS. 8a and 8b , such asupport element 700 is arranged in a midsole 850 of embodiments of aninventive sole 800 in such a way, that the pumping action is createdduring walking with the sole 800. For example, the lifting of the heel(cf. arrow 801) during push-off over the tip of the foot at the end of astep cycle may have the effect that the cylinder of the first partialmember 710 moves (cf. arrow 802) with respect to the piston of thesecond partial member 720 in comparison to the “neutral” position of thesole 800 as shown in FIG. 8a , and hence creates the pumping action. Asystem of connected bladders 751 and 756 may also be arranged in themidsole 850, for example, as discussed in relation to FIGS. 7f and 7 g.

FIGS. 17a-e show further schematic sketches of possible embodiments ofinventive support elements, e.g. embodiments comprising a piston andcylinder or a grommet and rivet.

FIG. 17a shows how shear pots may be used to prevent excessive shearingof the sole.

FIG. 17b shows how a piston and cylinder construction may be used toprevent an overstretching of the sole.

FIG. 17c illustrates the possibility of having several cylinder/pistonunits arranged in series along a common connection member.

FIG. 17d illustrates how two screwable sleeves may be tightened orloosened to increase or decrease the stiffness of the sole material.

Finally, FIG. 17e shows how a grommet and rivet construction may be usedto provide a traction element which extends through the bottom surfaceof the sole, and which is surrounded by a cushioning element.

FIGS. 9a to 9c show further embodiments of an inventive support element900 with a first partial member 910 and a second partial member 920which were rotatably connected to each other in a connection region 930in an injection molding process. The connection region 930 is providedas a ball joint. Regarding the possibilities for the manufacture of sucha support element 900 and potential materials for this, reference ismade to the corresponding explanations in other parts of this document.

It is, in particular, envisioned that the first partial member 910 andthe second partial member 920 each comprise a rod-shaped section whichruns into the connection region 930.

Around the free axis 970, which may, for example, as depicted in FIGS.9a to 9c , be given by a longitudinal axis through the support element900 and, in particular, the rod-shaped sections of the first partialmember 910 and the second partial member 920, rotations of the secondpartial member 920 with respect to the first partial member 910 witharbitrary rotation angles may be possible. By means of correspondingstoppers or other elements suitable for this on the first partial member910 and/or the second partial member 920, rotations around the axis 970may, in principle, also be limited.

With regard to the locking axis 980 on the other hand, which isperpendicular to the free axis 970, rotations of the second partialmember 920 with respect to the first partial member 910 may be morestrongly restricted or be completely excluded. This may depend on theway in which the first partial member 910 is designed in the connectionregion 930.

If, for example, as shown in FIG. 9a , the first partial member 910encompasses the second partial member 920 in the connection region 930to such a degree, that essentially no backlash is present in theconnection region 930, a rotation of the second partial member 920 withrespect to the first partial member 910 around the locking axis 980 isessentially not possible. If, on the other hand, as shown in FIGS. 9band 9c , the connection region 930 comprises a mouth 935, rotations ofthe second partial member 920 around the locking axis 980 are possibleuntil the second partial member 920 hits an edge of the mouth 935.Herein, the mouth 935 may be provided symmetrically, for examplecircular, such that rotations of the second partial member 920 withrespect to the first partial member 910 around a second locking axis(not shown), which is perpendicular to the first locking axis 980 andthe free axis 970, are possible to the same degree as rotations aroundthe first locking axis 980. The mouth 935 may, however, also be designedasymmetrically, such that rotations around the first locking axis 980and around the second locking axis are possible or restricted todifferent degrees.

FIGS. 10a and 10b show a further embodiments of an inventive supportelement 1000, wherein a first partial member 1010 was rotatablyconnected to a second partial member 1020 in an injection moldingprocess in a connection region 1030. Herein, the connection region 1030is provided as a ball joint.

The first partial member 1010 was manufactured from polyamide 6.6 with alubricant added and the second partial member 1020 from polyamide 12 intwo injection molding steps as already discussed. However, othermaterial combinations as described herein and, in particular, anycombination of Options I, II and III discussed above might also be used.

Around the longitudinal axis 1070 of the support element 1000, rotationsof the first partial member 1010 with respect to the second partialmember 1020 (or vice versa, depending on the perspective) are possiblewith arbitrary rotation angles. As already mentioned, by means ofcorresponding elements on the first partial member 1010 and/or thesecond partial member 1020, rotations around this free axis 1070 mayalso be limited. Around a locking axis 1080 that is perpendicular to thefree axis 1070, rotations of the first partial member 1010 with respectto the second partial member 1020 are only possible up to a thresholdangle α, as shown in FIG. 10b . The value of this threshold angle α isdetermined by the size and design of the mouth 1035 of the ball joint1030.

FIGS. 18a-h show further schematic sketches of possible embodiments ofinventive support elements.

FIG. 18a , which shows embodiments similar to the support element 100,illustrates how the rotational range of such a support element may becontrolled.

FIG. 18b shows embodiments comprising two ball joints that may comprisea limiter, respectively, which limits the rotational range in the twoconnection regions. The joint connecting the two ball joints may beconvoluted. The rear plate of the support element may also extend as anexternal heel counter.

FIG. 18c shows how a translational movement in a support element may beused to allow or restrict rotational movements within the supportelement by two sets of engaging teeth. This construction might be usedto increase the torsion stiffness during dynamic movements when theteeth engage due to the translational movement within the supportelement, whereas, when the sole lies flat on the ground, the teethdisengage and allow twisting of the sole and the support element.

FIG. 18d illustrates the idea of having an imbedded momentum generatedwithin the sole. The timing may be configured to aid with foot lift.

FIG. 18e illustrates how a support element could be adjusted, e.g. inheight, from a bottom or top surface of the midsole by differentinteraction elements, like locks, screws or hinges.

FIG. 18f shoes how a rotating internal disc may be used to open andclose claim vents within the shoe sole.

FIG. 18g illustrates how a support element may comprise a snap-fitconnection that was overmolded in an injection molding process.

Finally, FIG. 18h shows embodiments that may allow or restrict rotationonly in a certain flex angle of the foot.

FIGS. 11a and 11b show further embodiments of an inventive supportelement 1100 as well as embodiments of an inventive sole 1199 whichcomprises such a support element 1100.

The support element 1100 comprises a first partial member 1110 and asecond partial member 1120, which are slidably connected with oneanother in an injection molding process in a connection region. Thefirst partial member 1110 and the second partial member 1120 areprovided as planar members. Herein, the first partial member 1110 andthe second partial member 1120 are arranged with respect to each othersuch that their respective planar surfaces face each other. Hence, bothpartial members 1110, 1120 may be slid along their planar surfaces withrespect to each other. The second partial member 1120 may, for example,as shown in FIG. 11a , be provided as some kind of carriage, whichencompasses the first partial member 1110 which is provided as a platealong its longitudinal sides in such a way, that it can slide along theplanar surface of the first partial member 1110 in a longitudinaldirection.

As shown in FIG. 11b , such a support element 1100 may, for example, bearranged in the heel region of a midsole 1150 in such a way, thattranslations of the first planar partial member 1110 relative to thesecond planar partial member 1120 may proceed in a plane of the sole1199 and essentially in longitudinal direction of the sole 1199, asindicated by the arrows 1101, and may thus at least partially absorb oralleviate shear forces that may act on the musculoskeletal system of thewearer when treading down with the heel.

FIGS. 12a and 12b show further embodiments of inventive support elements1200 a and 1200 b, each comprising a plurality of first partial membersand/or second partial members that are movably connected to each otherin respective connection regions.

The support element 1200 a comprises two first partial members 1210 aand 1211 a as well as two second partial members 1220 a and 1221 a. Thefirst and second partial members 1210 a, 1220 a, 1211 a, 1221 a arealternatingly movably connected to each other in connection regions 1230a, 1231 a, 1232 a, wherein these connections were created in aninjection molding process, e.g. according to Options I, II and/or III asdiscussed above. In the case shown here, the connection regions 1230 a,1231 a and 1232 a are provided as ball joints, such that rotations ofthe first partial members 1210 a, 1211 a with respect to the secondpartial members 1220 a, 1221 a are possible.

The support element 1200 b, on the other hand, comprises a centralsecond partial member 1220 b, with whom a plurality of first partialmembers 1210 b, 1211 b, 1212 b, 1213 b, 1214 b and 1215 b were rotatablyand/or slidably connected in a plurality of connection regions 1230 b,1231 b, 1232 b, 1233 b, 1234 b and 1235 b in an injection moldingprocess, e.g. according to Options I, II and/or III as discussed above.The connection regions 1230 b, 1231 b, 1234 b and 1235 b are provided asball joints in the case shown here, whereas the connection regions 1232b and 1233 b comprise a piston and cylinder.

The opposite case, in which a first partial member is connectedrotatably and/or slidably with a plurality of second partial members inan injection molding process in a plurality of connection regions, is,of course, also possible.

At this point, explicit reference is further made to the fact that theembodiments 1200 a and 1200 b shown in FIGS. 12a and 12b only serve toillustrate the possibilities provided to the skilled person within thescope of the invention with regard to influencing the properties of aninventive sole with an inventive support element as desired, and dotherefore not necessarily represent the proportions and dimensions asencountered in an actual embodiment.

FIGS. 19a-d show further schematic sketches of possible embodiments ofskeleton-like inventive support elements.

In such a skeleton-like support element, cf. FIG. 19a , the centralelement could be rigid or flexible. The articulated elements connectedto the central element can rotate or move sideways to give the solemovement stability/flexibility in certain directions.

A skeleton-like support element can be provided as an internal skeletonelement with articulated elements within a midsole, cf. FIG. 19 b.

Or the skeleton-like support element comprises blocks of midsolematerial arranged at the ends of the articulated elements of the supportelement, cf. FIG. 19 c.

FIG. 19d shows a further possible arrangement of the connection regionsof such a skeleton-like support element.

In FIGS. 13a to 13c , embodiments of an inventive manufacturing method1300 are outlined.

For the manufacture of an inventive support element, for example one ofthe support elements 100, 300, 400, 600, 700, 900, 1000, 1100, 1200 a or1200 b explicitly discussed herein, a first partial member 1310 may, e.g. as shown in FIGS. 13a and 13b , be connected movably, in particularrotatably and/or slidably, with a second partial member 1320 byinjection molding, indicated by the arrow 1350, in a connection region1330.

To this end, the first partial member 1310 may, for example, bepositioned in a mold 1360, which may, for example, be comprised of twomold parts 1361 and 1362 movable with respect to each other.Subsequently, the mold 1360 may be closed, and the second partial member1320 may be manufactured by the injection molding process 1350 in theclosed mold 1360, wherein the mold 1360 or the two mold parts 1361 and1362, respectively, may be provided to comprise a cavity 1321 in theclosed state that corresponds to the shape of the second partial member1320 to be manufactured and that is filled during the injection moldingprocess 1350 by the material used for the manufacture, hence creatingthe second partial member 1320 and simultaneously connecting it in theconnection region 1330 movably, in particular rotatably and/or slidably,with the first partial member 1310.

In this regard, it is in particular envisioned that, prior to theinjection molding 1350 of the second partial member 1320, the firstpartial member 1310 is also injection molded in an injection moldingprocess in the mold 1360 as shown in FIG. 13c and indicated by the arrow1351. Herein, the mold 1360 or the mold parts 1361 and 1362,respectively, may comprise a further cavity 1311 in a second closedstate of the mold 1360 that may differ from the closed state of the mold1360 in which the second partial member 1320 is molded, wherein thecavity 1311 corresponds to the shape of the first partial member 1310 tobe manufactured and which is filled by the material used for themanufacture during the injection molding process 1351.

Depending on the specific choice of materials used for the manufactureof the first and second partial member, respectively, the processingparameters and in particular the molding temperature and the differentmold positions may have to be adjusted when injection molding the firstand second partial member, respectively. This may in particular be thecase, if the materials for the first and second partial member arechosen according to Option II as discussed above.

Alternatively, the first partial member 1310 may also be injectionmolded in a different mold and then be inserted into the mold 1360.

It is furthermore possible that instead of the first partial member1310, the second partial member 1320 is initially positioned in the mold1360 or injection molded in this mold, and in a further injectionmolding process the first partial member 1310 is subsequentlymanufactured in the mold and connected movably, in particular rotatablyand/or slidably, in the connection region 1330 with the second partialmember 1320. The statements made above regarding the adjustment of theprocessing parameters and mold positions apply analogously here.

The mold 1350 may, for example, be a rotational mold, but differentkinds of molds are also possible.

FIGS. 14a and 14b illustrate further embodiments of an inventivemanufacturing method 1400 for the manufacture of an inventive supportelement.

In the embodiments of method 1400, the first partial member 1410 and thesecond partial member 1420 are manufactured in a mold 1460 and connectedmovably, in particular rotatably and/or slidably, in a connection region1430 by a simultaneous injection molding, indicated by the two arrows1450. For this, the mold 1460 may comprise two mold parts 1461 and 1462movable with respect to each other, which may be provided such that inthe closed state of the mold 1460 they comprise cavities 1411 and 1421that correspond to the shape of the first partial member 1410 and thesecond partial member 1420, respectively, to be manufactured and thatare filled with the material used for the manufacture during theinjection molding process 1450, thereby creating the first partialmember 1410 and the second partial member 1420 and simultaneouslyconnecting them movably, in particular rotatably and/or slidably, in theconnection region 1430. These embodiments of an inventive method may inparticular be applied if the materials for the manufacture of the firstand second partial member, respectively, are chosen in accordance toOption I and/or Option III discussed above.

Finally, reference is made to the fact that FIGS. 13a, 13b and 13c aswell as 14 a and 14 b are merely sketches and that, in particular, thespecific design of the support elements shown there may not be construedas limitations to the methods 1300, 1400 being described, which may beused for the manufacture of any kind of inventive support element.

FIGS. 20a-b show schematic sketches of possible embodiments of inventivesupport elements for use with a lacing system of a shoe.

FIG. 20a shows how a support element may be used to provide an embeddedlace locking system. Slidable lace attachment members may be connectedwith an elastic connection or a spring connection to provide a good fitof the laced shoe.

FIG. 20b illustrates the concept of bundling the lace force in one pointfor getting a comfort and compressed fit around the midfoot by a laceclosure system, e.g. at the bottom or the side of the midsole.

In the following, further examples are described to facilitate theunderstanding of the invention:

-   -   1. Support element (100; 300; 400; 600; 700; 900; 1000; 1100;        1200 a; 1200 b) for a shoe sole (200; 500; 800; 1199) or for a        cushioning element (250; 550; 850; 1150), comprising:    -   a. a first partial member (110; 310; 410; 610; 710; 910; 1010;        1110; 1210 a; 1211 a; 1210 b; 1211 b; 1212 b; 1213 b; 1214 b;        1215 b; 1310; 1410); and    -   b. a second partial member (120; 125; 320; 420; 620; 720; 920;        1020; 1120; 1220 a; 1221 a; 1220 b; 1320; 1420),    -   c. wherein the second partial member (120; 125; 320; 420; 620;        720; 920; 1020; 1120; 1220 a; 1221 a; 1220 b; 1320; 1420) is        connected rotatably and/or slidably with the first partial        member (110; 310; 410; 610; 710; 910; 1010; 1110; 1210 a; 1211        a; 1210 b; 1211 b; 1212 b; 1213 b; 1214 b; 1215 b; 1310; 1410)        in a connection region (130; 135; 330; 430; 630; 635; 730; 930;        1030; 1230 a; 1231 a; 1232 a; 1230 b; 1231 b; 1232 b; 1233 b;        1234 b; 1235 b; 1330; 1430) by an injection molding process        (1350; 1351; 1450).    -   2. Support element (100; 300; 400; 600; 700; 900; 1000; 1100;        1200 a; 1200 b) according to example 1, wherein the first        partial member (110; 310; 410; 610; 710; 910; 1010; 1110; 1210        a; 1211 a; 1210 b; 1211 b; 1212 b; 1213 b; 1214 b; 1215 b; 1310;        1410) comprises a first plastic material and the second partial        member (120; 125; 320; 420; 620; 720; 920; 1020; 1120; 1220 a;        1221 a; 1220 b; 1320; 1420) comprises a second plastic material        and wherein the two plastic materials are chosen such that the        connection region (130; 135; 330; 430; 630; 635; 730; 930; 1030;        1230 a; 1231 a; 1232 a; 1230 b; 1231 b; 1232 b; 1233 b; 1234 b;        1235 b; 1330; 1430) does not comprise a chemical bond between        the two materials.    -   3. Support element (100; 300; 400; 600; 700; 900; 1000; 1100;        1200 a; 1200 b) according to the preceding example, wherein the        first plastic material and the second plastic material are        chemically incompatible.    -   4. Support element (100; 300; 400; 600; 700; 900; 1000; 1100;        1200 a; 1200 b) according to one of the preceding examples 2-3,        wherein the first plastic material has a first melting        temperature that is significantly higher than a second melting        temperature of the second plastic material.    -   5. Support element (100; 300; 400; 600; 700; 900; 1000; 1100;        1200 a; 1200 b) according to one of the preceding examples 2-4,        wherein the first plastic material and the second plastic        material do not form a chemical bond due to an additive        contained in either or both of the first and/or second plastic        material.    -   6. Support element (100; 300; 400; 600; 700; 900; 1000; 1100;        1200 a; 1200 b) according to one of the preceding examples 2-5,        wherein the first plastic material comprises one or more of the        following materials: polyamide, PA; in particular polyamide-6.6,        PA6.6; polytetrafluoroethylene, PTFE.    -   7. Support element (100; 300; 400; 600; 700; 900; 1000; 1100;        1200 a; 1200 b) according to one of the preceding examples 2-6,        wherein the second plastic material comprises one or more of the        following materials: polyamide, PA; in particular polyamide-12,        PA12; polyoxymethylene, POM; polytetrafluoroethylene, PTFE.    -   8. Support element (300; 600; 700; 1100; 1200 b) according to        one of the preceding examples, wherein the support element (300;        600; 700; 1100; 1200 b) comprises at least on locking direction        (780), in which locking direction a translation of the first        partial member (310; 610; 710; 1110; 1212 b; 1213 b) relative to        the second partial member (320; 620; 720; 1120; 1220 b) is more        strongly restricted than in another direction (370; 770).    -   9. Support element (100; 300; 400; 700; 900; 1000; 1200 a; 1200        b) according to one of the preceding examples, wherein the        support element (100; 300; 400; 700; 900; 1000; 1200 a; 1200 b)        comprises at least one locking axis (780; 980; 1080), around        which locking axis a rotation of the first partial member (110;        310; 410; 710; 910; 1010; 1210 a; 1211 a; 1210 b; 1211 b; 1212        b; 1213 b; 1214 b; 1215 b; 1310; 1410) is more strongly        restricted than a rotation around another axis (170; 370; 770;        970; 1070).    -   10. Support element (900; 1000; 1200 a; 1200 b) according to one        of the preceding examples, wherein the connection region (930;        1030; 1230 a; 1231 a; 1232 a; 1230 b; 1231 b; 1234 b; 1235 b;        1330; 1430) is provided as a ball joint.    -   11. Support element (700; 1200 b) according to one of the        examples 1-9, wherein the connection region (730; 1232 b; 1233        b) comprises a piston and a cylinder, in which cylinder the        piston is arranged.    -   12. Support element (700) according to one of the preceding        examples, wherein the connection region (730) is provided such        that a movement of the first partial member (710) relative to        the second partial member (720) creates a pumping action.    -   13. Support element (700) according to example 12, wherein the        support element (700) is provided such that the movement can be        created by walking with the shoe sole (800).    -   14. Support element (1100) according to one of the preceding        examples, wherein the first partial member (1110) and/or the        second partial member (1120) are provided as planar members.    -   15. Support element (1100) according to example 14, wherein the        first planar member (1110) and the second planar member (1120)        are provided slidably with respect to each other.    -   16. Support element (700; 900; 1000; 1200 a; 1200 b) according        to one of the examples 1-13, wherein the first partial member        (710; 910; 1010; 1210 a; 1211 a; 1210 b; 1211 b; 1212 b; 1213 b;        1214 b; 1215 b; 1310; 1410) and/or the second partial member        (720; 920; 1020; 1220 a; 1221 a; 1220 b; 1320; 1420) comprise a        rod-shaped section, which runs into the connection region (730;        930; 1030; 1230 a; 1231 a; 1232 a; 1230 b; 1231 b; 1232 b; 1233        b; 1234 b, 1235 b; 1330; 1430).    -   17. Support element (100; 1200 a) according to one of the        preceding examples, wherein the first partial member (110; 1211        a) is connected rotatably and/or slidably with a plurality of        second partial members (120; 125; 1220 a; 1221 a) in a plurality        of connection regions (130; 135; 1231 a; 1232 a) by an injection        molding process.    -   18. Support element (1200 a; 1200 b) according to one of the        preceding examples, wherein the second partial member (1220 a;        1220 b) is connected rotatably and/or slidably with a plurality        of first partial members (1210 a; 1211 a; 1210 b; 1211 b; 1212        b; 1213 b; 1214 b; 1215 b) in a plurality of connection regions        (1230 a; 1231 a; 1230 b; 1231 b; 1232 b; 1233 b; 1234 b; 1235 b)        by an injection molding process.    -   19. Support element (1200 a) according to one of the preceding        examples, wherein a plurality of first partial members (1210 a;        1211 a) and a plurality of second partial members (1220 a; 1221        a) are alternatingly connected to each other rotatably and/or        slidably in a plurality of connection regions (1230 a; 1231 a;        1232 a).    -   20. Cushioning element (250; 550; 850; 1150), in particular        midsole (250; 550; 850; 1150) or part of a midsole (250; 550;        850; 1150), comprising a support element (100; 300; 400; 600;        700; 900; 1000; 1100; 1200 a; 1200 b) according to one of the        preceding examples 1-19.    -   21. Cushioning element (250; 550; 850; 1150) according to the        preceding example, wherein the cushioning element (250; 550;        850; 1150) comprises randomly arranged particles of an expanded        material, in particular of expanded thermoplastic polyurethane        and/or expanded polyether-block-amide.    -   22. Sole (200; 500; 800; 1199), with a support element (100;        300; 400; 600; 700; 900; 1000; 1100; 1200 a; 1200 b) according        to one of the examples 1-19.    -   23. Sole (200; 500; 800; 1199) according to the preceding        example, wherein the sole (200; 500; 800; 1199) comprises a        cushioning element (250; 550; 850; 1150) according to one of the        claims 20-21.    -   24. Shoe, in particular running shoe, with a sole (200; 500;        800; 1199) according to one of the examples 22-23.    -   25. Method (1300; 1400) for the manufacture of a support element        for a shoe sole (200; 500; 800; 1199) or for a cushioning        element (250; 550; 850; 1150) with a first (1310; 1410) and a        second (1320; 1420) partial member, wherein the first (1310;        1410) and the second (1320; 1420) partial member are connected        rotatably and/or slidably in a connection region (1330; 1430) by        injection molding (1350; 1450).    -   26. Method (1300) according to example 25, wherein the second        partial member (1320) is manufactured and simultaneously        connected rotatably and/or slidably with the first partial        member (1310) in the connection region (1330) by the injection        molding (1350) in a mold (1360), in which the first partial        member (1310) is arranged.    -   27. Method (1300) according to example 26, wherein the first        partial member (1310) is also manufactured by injection molding        (1351).    -   28. Method according to example 25, wherein the first partial        member is manufactured and simultaneously connected rotatably        and/or slidably with the second partial member in the connection        region by the injection molding in a mold, in which the second        partial member is arranged.    -   29. Method according to example 28, wherein the second partial        member is also manufactured by injection molding.    -   30. Method (1400) according to example 25, wherein the first        (1410) and the second (1420) partial member are manufactured and        simultaneously connected rotatably and/or slidably to each other        in the connection region (1430) in a single manufacturing step        by the injection molding (1450).

Different arrangements of the components depicted in the drawings ordescribed above, as well as components and steps not shown or describedare possible. Similarly, some features and sub-combinations are usefuland may be employed without reference to other features andsub-combinations. Embodiments of the invention have been described forillustrative and not restrictive purposes, and alternative embodimentswill become apparent to readers of this patent. Accordingly, the presentinvention is not limited to the embodiments described above or depictedin the drawings, and various embodiments and modifications may be madewithout departing from the scope of the claims below.

That which is claimed is:
 1. A sole comprising: a cushioning element in the form of a midsole, wherein the midsole comprises randomly arranged particles of an expanded material; a support element at least partially enclosed by the midsole, wherein the support element comprises a first partial member formed of a first material; and two second partial members each formed of a second material; wherein the first material is different from the second material; wherein the first partial member is integrally formed with the second partial members in two connection regions, wherein the connection regions are configured to allow the first partial member to rotate or slide relative to the second partial members, wherein the first partial member and the second partial members contact each other in the connection regions.
 2. The sole according to claim 1, wherein the first material and the second material do not form a chemical bond in the connective regions.
 3. The sole according to claim 1, wherein the first material has a melting temperature that is higher than a melting temperature of the second material.
 4. The sole according to claim 1, wherein the first material and the second material are plastic materials, wherein the plastic materials are chosen such that the connection region does not comprise a chemical bond between the two plastic materials.
 5. The sole according to claim 4, wherein the plastic materials do not form the chemical bond due to an additive contained in at least one of the two plastic materials.
 6. The sole according to claim 4, wherein the first material comprises one or more of the following materials: polyamide and polytetrafluoroethylene.
 7. The sole according to claim 6, wherein the polyamide is polyamide-6.6.
 8. The sole according to claim 4, wherein the second material comprises one or more of the following materials: polyamide, polyoxymethylene, and polytetrafluoroethylene.
 9. The sole according to claim 8, wherein the polyamide is polyamide-12.
 10. The sole according to claim 1, wherein the connection regions comprise at least one locking direction, wherein a movement of the first partial member relative to the second partial members in the at least one locking direction is more strongly restricted than in another direction.
 11. The sole according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the two connection regions is a ball joint.
 12. The sole according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the two connection regions is a piston arranged inside a cylinder.
 13. The sole according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the connection regions is configured so that a movement of the first partial member relative to at least one of the second partial members creates a pumping action.
 14. The sole according to claim 13, wherein the support element is positioned within the midsole such that the movement of the first partial member relative to the second partial members is created by a wearer treading on the sole.
 15. The sole according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the first partial member and the second partial members is a planar member.
 16. The sole according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the first partial member and the second partial members comprises a rod-shaped section, wherein the rod-shaped section is inserted into a cylinder in at least one of the connection regions.
 17. The sole according to claim 1, wherein the particles of the expanded material are selected from a group consisting of expanded thermoplastic polyurethane particles and expanded polyether-block-amide particles.
 18. A shoe comprising the sole of claim
 1. 